Xi’an Attractions

Xi’an Great Mosque

The Great Mosque in Xi’an is one of the oldest and most well-known mosques in China, located on Huajue Lane near to Drum Tower in Xi’an City Centre. It was first built when the Islam was introduced to China by Arab merchants during the Tang Dynasty (685 -762) in 742 AD and still in use by China Hui Muslims as a place to worship Allah (God).

Many additions are made to this mosque during the Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. It’s covered an area of 11,750 square meters with width of 47 meters and length of 250 meters.

It is divided to four courtyards which each designed uniquely. The 1st courtyard contains wooden arch which dates back to 17th century. The 2nd courtyard contains stone arch stands with two steles on both sides. The 3rd courtyard contains steles from ancient times. The 4th courtyard contains main praying hall. It can hold up to 1,000 prayers at a time.

What is special of this mosque is that the 30 chapter of Holy Quran is carved on the wooden boards and placed on the main praying hall of this mosque. Also the Great Mosque’s architecture and construction is completely Chinese style which doesn’t have any dome and minarets like the other mosques in other part of China or in the World. Please note that the non-Muslims are not allowed to enter during the praying time and to main praying hall of the mosque. Tickets are issued to visitors at 15 Yuan during the low tourist season and 25 Yuan during the high tourist seasons.